Mary Elizabeth Melo, 71, of Lebanon and Estero, Fla., and formerly of Columbia, Conn., and Nobleboro, died April 24 in Naples, Fla. after a short illness. She was born Sept. 9, 1934, in Windham, daughter of the late Professor Robert C. and Catherine (Roche) Baldwin. Prior to her retirement as a branch manager, she was employed at the former Connecticut Bank and Trust Company. Mary was an active member of the Columbia Democratic Party and served for a time as the Columbia Town Treasurer. She enjoyed bowling in various leagues and tournaments with her friends at Willi Bowl. Mary had a generous spirit and loved all the beauties of nature; especially her time spent at her cottage in Maine, the warmth of her many friends in Florida and the company of her dog, Todd. She was a devoted mother and teacher to her children. She is predeceased husband, Wally Melo; and son, Thomas Nathan Spector. She is survived by her loving daughter, Jennifer Spector of Lebanon, Fla., with whom she made her home; Jennifer’s father, John Spector; two brothers and their wives, James and Joyce Baldwin of Oceanside, N.Y., and Robert and Joan Baldwin of Columbia; their sons, Michael and Jon; five stepchildren and their families, Judy Melo, Diane (Melo) King, Cindy (Melo) Somes, Tom Melo and John Melo. Memorial Mass 11 a.m., Mon., May 1 in St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic, Conn. Burial will be in Center Cemetery, Columbia, Conn. at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 45 Ash St., East Hartford, CT 06108 or to the American Cancer Society, 238 West Town St., Norwich, CT 06360. Please visit www.potterfh.com for online memorial guest book.
